Supporting someone with an eating disorder requires more than good intentions—it takes awareness, compassion, and access to the right resources. In this episode of Conversations with Intent, host Arden O'Connor is joined by Priya James, Associate Director of Community Engagement at the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA).

Priya shares her personal journey and professional insights on eating disorders and disordered eating, offering a powerful look at early warning signs, how to speak to loved ones without shame, and why specialized care is so essential. She also discusses the impact of media on body image, the importance of using compassionate language, and how communities can rally around those struggling.

Whether you’re concerned about a friend, navigating your own recovery, or want to better understand the complexities of eating disorders, this episode offers practical advice, hopeful perspectives, and trusted resources.

Learn more at: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

Topics Covered:

How to recognize early signs of eating disorders

What supportive conversations look and sound like

The importance of trauma-informed and specialized care

The impact of media and cultural messaging on body image

Resources and community-based tools for support and recovery

Resources & Links:

Website: https://intentclinical.com

Email: conversations@intentclinical.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intentclinical

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentclinical

LinkedIn (Intent Clinical): https://www.linkedin.com/company/intentclinical

Arden O'Connor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arden-o-connor-87715b/

Priya James LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-james-1694a214/

National Eating Disorders Association: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org